A small, green island separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow strait just 250 metres wide -- Poros is one of the easiest and most relaxed day trips from Athens. Less dramatic than Hydra, less busy than Aegina, but with a charm that catches people by surprise.
In this guide
Poros sits in the Saronic Gulf, about 58 km south of Piraeus. The island is actually two islands joined by a thin isthmus -- Sferia (the small volcanic hill where the town sits) and Kalavria (the larger, forested part with beaches and the ancient sanctuary). The narrow channel between Poros and the Peloponnese town of Galatas creates a sheltered strait that looks almost like a river, giving the harbour a unique, intimate feel.
You can compare ferry prices and book at Ferryscanner.
How Do You Get There From Athens?
By Ferry from Piraeus
| Ferry Type | Journey Time | Cost (one way) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular ferry | 2 hrs 15 min | 10-12 EUR | Several daily |
| Fast ferry (hydrofoil/catamaran) | 1 hr | 16-18 EUR | Several daily |
Ferries depart from Piraeus, which is connected to central Athens by Metro Line 1 (Green Line). The first departures are around 07:30-08:00, with returns into the evening.
Most Hydra-bound ferries stop at Poros on the way, so connections are frequent.
Tip: The fast ferry is worth the extra cost for a day trip -- it saves over an hour each way, giving you significantly more island time.
By Car + Short Ferry
An alternative approach: drive to Galatas on the Peloponnese coast (about 2.5 hours from Athens via the motorway through Epidaurus) and take the small car ferry across the strait. The crossing takes 5 minutes and runs constantly throughout the day. Cost about 1.50 EUR per person, 5 EUR for a car.
This works well if you're combining Poros with Epidaurus or Nafplio.
What Can You See and Do?
Poros Town
The town climbs up the volcanic hill of Sferia in a cascade of white and pastel buildings with terracotta roofs. The waterfront is the social centre -- cafes, restaurants, and the ferry dock all face the narrow strait with Galatas and the Peloponnese mountains as a backdrop.
The Clock Tower -- Poros's landmark, sitting at the top of the hill. A short, steep climb from the waterfront through narrow lanes. The views from the top -- harbour below, mountains across the water -- are the best on the island.
Poros is the Saronic island I'd pick for someone who just wants to relax without a plan. No must-see ruins, no pressure -- just a harbour, a swim, and a long lunch. It's the most understated of the four and I think that's its strength.
The waterfront -- Walk the length of it, have a coffee, watch the ferries and fishing boats come and go. The evening promenade is a local tradition.
The backstreets -- Behind the waterfront, narrow stepped lanes wind uphill past small churches, cats, and flowering balconies. Quiet and photogenic.
Beaches
Poros has better beaches than Hydra, though they're mostly on the larger Kalavria side of the island.
- Kanali Beach -- The closest to town, a few minutes' walk west. Small, pebbly, fine for a quick swim.
- Askeli Beach -- About 3 km east of town. The most popular beach on the island. Sandy, organised with sunbeds and water sports, several tavernas. Bus service from town.
- Love Bay (Limanaki Agapis) -- A small sheltered cove accessible by water taxi or a 20-minute walk from Monastiri. Pine trees to the water's edge, calm turquoise water.
- Monastiri Beach -- Near the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi. Pine-backed, quiet, some facilities.
- Russian Bay -- Named after a 19th-century Russian naval base. Reached by water taxi or a longer walk. Very quiet.
Temple of Poseidon (Kalavria)
The ruins of an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon sit in the middle of the island on a wooded hilltop. This is where the orator Demosthenes sought refuge from the Macedonians and took poison rather than be captured (322 BC).
The ruins are fragmentary -- don't expect standing columns -- but the setting among pine trees with sea views is lovely. A pleasant 30-minute walk or short taxi ride from town.
Water Sports and Cycling
Poros is flat enough (on the Kalavria side) for comfortable cycling. Bike rental is available in town for about 8-10 EUR per day. The circuit around the island is roughly 25 km.
Water sports centres at Askeli and other beaches offer kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing.
Galatas and the Lemon Forest
Take the 5-minute water taxi across the strait to Galatas on the Peloponnese side. Just behind the town is a 30,000-tree lemon grove -- the largest in Greece. In spring, the scent of lemon blossoms is overwhelming. You can walk through the groves in about 30 minutes.
How Should You Plan Your Day?
- 08:00 -- Fast ferry from Piraeus
- 09:00 -- Arrive Poros. Coffee on the waterfront.
- 09:30 -- Climb to the clock tower
- 10:00 -- Bus or bike to Askeli Beach
- 12:00 -- Swim, relax
- 13:30 -- Lunch at a beach taverna or back in town
- 15:00 -- Water taxi to Galatas, walk the lemon groves
- 16:00 -- Back to Poros, browse the town
- 17:30 -- Final drink on the waterfront
- 18:30 -- Ferry back to Piraeus
What Should You Know Before Going?
- Poros is smaller and quieter than Aegina or Hydra. That's the appeal. If you want buzz and nightlife, this isn't the island. If you want a peaceful day by the sea, it's ideal.
- Scooter rental is available and gives the most freedom on Kalavria. About 15-20 EUR per day.
- The bus service connects the town to Askeli, Monastiri, and other points on Kalavria. Runs every 30-60 minutes in summer, less frequently off-season.
- Bring cash for smaller tavernas, water taxis, and the Galatas ferry.
- Water taxis run from the harbour to beaches and Galatas. Agree on price before boarding.
Cross to Galatas on the little ferry and walk into the lemon groves if you're visiting in spring. The scent of lemon blossom is extraordinary -- it fills the whole valley.
- Poros is popular with Athenians for weekend getaways. Weekdays are significantly quieter.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
May-June -- Warm, green, the lemon groves are fragrant. Not yet peak season.
September-October -- Warm sea, thinner crowds, golden light.
Summer -- Hot and busy on weekends but the beaches handle it. Weekdays are fine.
Spring -- The island is at its greenest. Good for walking and cycling.
Poros is 58 km from Piraeus. The fast ferry takes about 1 hour. The island is connected to the Peloponnese by a 5-minute water crossing.
Planning more adventures from the capital? Browse our complete guide to the best day trips from Athens.
Last updated: March 2026
